KPA coach James Ontere targets nine points when the Kenya Volleyball National League resumes on January 23-26 in Iten, Marakwet County.
Ontere believes splendid performances in the league phase will boost their confidence as they head for the playoffs in June.
KPA crashed out in last year’s semi-finals, falling 3-0 to eventual champions Kenya Prisons at the Kasarani Indoor Arena.
Ontere is backing his players to go the distance as they hunt for a maiden top-flight trophy.
“We have a good number of players who are ready to deliver nine points in this third leg. We recruited some good players in all the departments this time round. We are confident of taking it all,” Ontere said.
Ontere will bank on the likes of middle-blocker Brian Kamonde, outside-hitter Dennis Omolo and libero Sam Juma as well as new additions — opposite-hitter Joshua Kamaru (General Service Unit) and setter Levis Ogutu (Kenya Forest Service).
Prisons top the standings with 17 points after winning all their six matches.
KPA follow with 12 points after four wins and a loss, while Equity — also on 12 points — are third after four wins and two losses.
Meanwhile, Ontere said gelling and team harmony is not a challenge even though some of his players are not based in Mombasa.
“We usually have about two-to three days where all players from Nairobi, Nyeri and Eldoret join us at the coast. We have six in Mombasa at the moment, a big plus for us,” Ontere said.
A total of 15 teams will compete in Iten.
In addition, Ontere said they are keen on giving their all in the newly-formed Kenya Cup and the rest of the tournaments this year.
Kenya Pipeline lead the standings in the women’s division after winning all five matches.
DCI, Prisons Kenya and Kenya Army follow.
Champions KCB, who have lost two matches so far, are fourth with debutants Vihiga fifth.
Meanwhile, KVF fixtures secretary John Oronje said they have spread the matches across four days in factoring player welfare.
“For the first time, matches
are being played from Thursday
(through Sunday), a move all the
teams warmly welcomed,” he said.
